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By: Sandra Ramani
If You Like Tuscany, Try: Istria
Where do Italians go when looking for deals on wine, cuisine and gourmet treats? Over the Adriatic Sea to Istria, the far-west region of Croatia that boasts many historic, cultural and culinary ties to its neighbor.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Monte Mulini
What to Do:
While away a week visiting charming towns replete with stone houses, twisty cobblestoned streets and the odd castle or two. In hilltop Motovun, tour medieval walls and gates (some with Venetian carvings) and enjoy a coffee with sweeping views of the surrounding forest. Groznjan, another hilltop spot, is known for its art galleries and artisan workshops, while in charming Bale, the quirky Kamene Price bar/café is the epi-center of the lively Open Jazz Fest. Hitting the coast is another popular Istrian pastime. Explore small fishing villages and islands via private boats available at the marina. Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant, then walk or bike along the shore.
Photo courtesy of National Tourism Board/ Renco Kosinozi
The Istria peninsula is home to several noted wineries turning out respected whites (the most popular varietal is Malvasia) and reds (deep, bold Terans). At picturesque Kabola, tour the winery and taste their unique Amfora wine, an aromatic, richly colored white that’s created using ancient techniques. The Mediterranean climate and soil that make area so great for wines is also ideal for growing olives, and many of the wineries also make their own oils — Meneghetti is known for both. Another signature gourmet product are truffles — both black and white versions of the mushroom grow in the region’s fertile Mirna River valley. Truffles are so abundant here that they’re on nearly every menu, topping pastas and eggs, baked into breads and even flavoring ice creams.
Photo coutesy of Relais Chateaux
Where to Stay:
In Rovinj check into the waterside Hotel Monte Mulini, a stylish and comfortable spot with a noted restaurant and vast wine cellar (room rates start at $215 a night; montemulinihotel.com). Next door is the modern and sleek sister property, Hotel Lone (room rates start at $153; lonehotel.com). To evoke more of the Tuscan experience, stay at Villa Meneghetti set among vineyards and olive groves (room rates start at $305 a night; meneghetti.info).
Photo courtesy of Hotel Lone
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